In short, no, you no longer need them. But let’s start with some background information…

The Background

Since the creation of the National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage & Bodywork’s (NCBTMB’s) Board Certification in Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork (BCTMB) credential on January 1, 2013, the continuing education requirements for certification renewal have been ever changing.

Aside from the initial removal of the ethics requirement, and then its reinstatement in October of 2013, the most recent change on February 1, 2019 is likely just as significant.

Since the beginning of the Board Certification credential, the NCBTMB has required 3 CE hours in research. According to a post on their website in January 2013, “Achievement of Board Certification is the highest attainable credential level in the massage therapy profession. As in other professions, Board Certification serves as an additional differentiator for advanced level therapists. The Board Certified therapist will renew every two years, and incorporated in the renewal requirements are three hours of research.”

Further, the page provides a post written by the Massage Therapy Foundation’s President at that time, Ruth Werner, stating “The Massage Therapy Foundation is dedicated to the vision that the practice of massage therapy is evidence-informed, and accessible to everyone. Our mission moves us in this direction through the support of scientific research, education, and community service. We are delighted that the National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork recognizes the importance of research literacy for Board Certified massage therapists, and we are eager to continue this collaboration, to advance research as a cornerstone of the massage therapy profession.”

While we are not aware of the reasons the decision was made to remove a requirement that the NCBTMB and the Massage Therapy Foundation found so important to initiate back in 2013, we look forward to finding out what new requirements might be coming our way.

]]>https://www.integrativehealthcare.org/mt/ncbtmb-do-i-need-research-ce-credits-to-renew-my-board-certification/feed/0The Top Ways Massage Benefits the Diabetic Populationhttps://www.integrativehealthcare.org/mt/the-top-ways-massage-benefits-the-diabetic-population/
https://www.integrativehealthcare.org/mt/the-top-ways-massage-benefits-the-diabetic-population/#respondThu, 31 Jan 2019 17:54:00 +0000https://www.integrativehealthcare.org/mt/?p=4731Explore all there is to know about diabetes, including massage therapy's positive role in assisting people with this condition.]]>

What Is Diabetes?

Broadly defined, this condition features elevated blood sugar levels and a failure to produce or utilize insulin.

8 Classic Signs and Symptoms

Neuropathy (abnormal nerve sensation which may or may not include pain)

Paresthesia (“pins and needles” feeling)

Dysfunction of both female and male erectile tissues

12 Common Complications

Heart disease

Hypertension

Stroke

Kidney disease

Blindness/eye issues

Neurological disease

Amputations

Dental disease

Decreased immunity

Immobility

Depression

Ketoacidosis

5 Tests That Can Measure Your Blood Glucose

Fasting blood sugar (FBS) measures blood glucose after you have not eaten for at least 8 hours. It is often the first test done to check for pre-diabetes and diabetes.

2-hour postprandial blood sugar measures blood glucose exactly 2 hours after you start eating a meal. This is not a test used to diagnose diabetes.

Random blood sugar (RBS) measures blood glucose regardless of when you last ate. Several random measurements may be taken throughout the day. Random testing is useful because glucose levels in healthy people do not vary widely throughout the day. Blood glucose levels that vary widely may mean a problem.

Oral glucose tolerance test is a common test to diagnose pre-diabetes and gestational diabetes during pregnancy. This test is a series of blood glucose measurements taken after you drink a distinctive liquid that contains pure glucose.

Glycohemoglobin (A1c) measures how much sugar adheres to red blood cells. This test can be used to diagnose diabetes, how well your diabetes has been controlled in recent months, and whether medication needs to be changed. The result of your A1c test can be used to estimate your average blood sugar level (estimated average glucose or “eAG”).

Criteria for Diagnosing Diabetes

To be diagnosed with diabetes, you must meet one of the following criteria:

Have symptoms of diabetes and blood sugar level equal to or greater than 200 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL). The blood sugar test is done at any time, without regard for when you last ate (random plasma glucose test or random blood sugar test).

Have a fasting blood sugar level that is equal to or greater than 126 mg/dL.

Have a 2-hour oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) result equal to or greater than 200 mg/dL.

Have a hemoglobin A1c that is 6.5 % or higher.

The diagnosis of diabetes needs to be confirmed by repeating the same blood sugar test or doing a different test on another day.

Treatment Options for Diabetes

Among the most common treatment options for Diabetics include the following medications:

Metformis: Decreases amount of glucose released from the liver. Common side effects include: bloating, gas, diarrhea, nausea, kidney and liver failure.

Sulfonylureas: This class of drug is known to stimulate release of insulin from pancreas. Common side effects include low blood sugar, skin rash, irritability, and nausea.

Prandin and Starlix: Both stimulate release of insulin from pancreas. Common side effects include, effects diminish quickly, and low blood sugar.

DPP-4 Inhibitors: Lowers blood sugar levels. A common side effect is respiratory infections.

Alpha-Glucosidase Inhibitors: Slows breakdown and assimilation of carbs during digestion. Common side effects include, gastrointestinal pain, nausea, diarrhea, and gas.

Before working with a diabetic client, ask yourself these questions:

Have I asked enough questions on physical symptoms and signs? (Client may have loss of sensation, skin ulcers or other complications from above list of signs and symptoms.)

Are there injection sites? (Avoid vigorous massage over recent injections. A healthy guideline is to remain three inches away from an injection site to avoid lubricant or pathogens to enter this site. Friction and other scar removal techniques over chronic sites may be indicated once the skin has regained enough integrity to avoid contaminating the injection site. )

Is there a heart or blood pressure condition with which to be concerned? (Avoid circulatory massage if heart condition or high blood pressure are witnessed in patient. Remember that Swedish massage as taught in the vast majority of entry level programs is considered circulatory in that a goal is to increase blood circulation.)

Do foot massages help diabetics? A study published in Physiotherapy Theory & Practice Journal in February 2017 indicated foot massage to diabetic patients improved balance, functional mobility and functional reach test (FRT) values. This study also recommends foot massages to be included in common rehabilitation programs for diabetic patients.

Can diabetics receive heat-based treatment including hot stone massage? (Peripheral neuropathy and skin sensitivities seen in many diabetics generally make hot stone massage and other heat-based therapies such as heating pads and warm towels unsafe for this clientele.)

How does massage affect body sugar? (Ask a client to take their blood sugar levels an hour after session to see if glucose levels raise or lower. In my experience, no two individuals witness equal effects of blood glucose levels post massage. Have clients also monitor levels of energy, fatigue, muscle pain and general mental clarity days after receiving massage sessions.)

Has client eaten recently before treatment? (Suggest eating 2-3 hours before massage treatment to avoid amplifying the effects of insulin injections if massage is administered too soon after injection.)

Hip and pelvic injuries are most common in adolescents and the elderly. Sport activities involving contact and explosive movement carry the highest risk of these injuries, and women are twice as likely as men to suffer these injuries.

Anatomy of the Hip and Pelvic Region

One reason for the high propensity for hip injuries is the anatomical makeup of this region. In total, there are 28 muscles facilitating movement of the trunk and limbs which attach onto the os coxa (hip or pelvic) bones. This does not include the pelvic floor musculature also present aiding in the function of internal anatomy of the hip region.

Sacrum: Wedged between the two os coxa bones is a sacrum acting to distribute weight and force from the upper to lower body regions coupled with a vestigial coccyx bone.

Piriformis Muscle: In addition, the piriformis muscle is functionally significant in this region despite its lack of attachment upon the os coxa itself. Attaching from the anterior sacral border to the greater femoral trochanter, the piriformis may easily alter tension placed upon the sciatic nerve creating sciatica-like dysfunction.

Ligament Structures: Also, there are numerous ligament structures in the hip region which either bind tissue to the sacrum bone or the os coxa bones bilaterally. An unequal tension load upon the ligaments may cause shifting of the bony structures, thus creating tilting of the hip bones.

Postural Imbalances: Postural imbalances witnessed in hip bone tilting directly impact this portion of the body. An anterior pelvic tilt will shorten the quadratus lumborum compressing the low back, and the quadriceps muscles making knee flexion difficult when walking. A posterior tilt will shorten the hamstring muscles making knee extension difficult when walking and creating unnecessary lumbar disk tension. A lateral pelvic tilt to either the left or right will slowly lead to scoliosis of the spine.

With the many potential structures impacted, a combination of varying therapies may be needed to alleviate hip and pelvic injury, including:

The same journal also published a 2010 study on the efficiency of chiropractic care with hip osteoarthritis patients, citing a statistically significant improvements of WOMAC (Western Ontarior & McMaster Osteoarthritis index) scores, Harris Hip Scale scores, and average hip range of motion figures.

Acupuncturist Whitfield Reaves wrote in Acupuncture Today about treatment plan options to alleviate hip osteoarthritis, including acupressure points both in the hip region and away from this region, to aid symptoms. His article further suggests specific treatment options to alleviate musculature attaching to the hip region to also alleviate hip injury pain, especially in osteoarthritic patients.

3 – Massage for Hip Pain

Massage for hip pain can be described by many practitioners as “hip massage” or “hip flexor massage” to indicate an emphasis in massage designed to alleviate the 28 functional movement-based muscles attaching to the os coxa/pelvic region.

Massage Can Help These 4 Common Hip Conditions

SI Joint Dysfunction – Biomechanical misalignments contribute in weakening the ligament structures of this region. Irritation at the articulating surfaces of bones becomes more severe over time creating pain in the low back, sacrum, gluteals and hamstrings, which can worsen after long periods of sitting or particular hip joint movements.

Piriformis Syndrome – A nerve compression syndrome in which the sciatic nerve is pinched at the piriformis muscle. Pain is present in the gluteals and posterior thigh (typically ending at the knee). Stretching the piriformis muscle usually worsens the pain as well as prolonged sitting and activities including running and walking.

Trochanteric Bursitis – Inflammation of the bursa sac resting between the IT band and greater trochanter of the femur leading to pain and discomfort at the hip joint. A client may have difficulty in sleeping on their side. Repetitive flexion / extension movements and direct blow, such as falling upon one’s hip, creates this condition.

“Hip Pointer” – A contusion or acute trauma to the iliac crest creates an avulsion tear of the oblique musculature at their os coxa attachments. Point tenderness, swelling and contralateral pain is present. Contact sports, falling upon a hard surface, or sudden lateral flexion against resistance creates this condition.

Current pain science research identifies the gluteus medius and minimus muscles as focal points for hip pain. Both located upon the lateral sides of the body, these muscles may create pain sensations mimicking sciatica in many patients. Addressing trigger points of these lateral hip muscles will greatly augment efforts to hip massage.

Hip Flexors

Hip flexors may also be addressed as highlighted in an article which suggests strain injuries of hip flexor tendons, more specifically termed the common iliopsoas tendon, may contribute in hip pain and dysfunction.

The “iliopsoas” refers to the union of the iliacus muscle and the psoas major muscle just inferior to the inguinal ligament. Bodywork efforts to ease tension and expedite healing of hip flexor strains can restore hip mobility and reduce pain.

Aiding chronic tightness of the hip flexors is necessary for the average individual who sits for long periods of time. A sitting position shortens the overall hip flexor muscles including psoas major, iliacus, rectus femoris and sartorius. Chronic shortening of the hip flexor muscles leads to chronic tightness – significantly impacting gait and posture.

Conclusion

Overall, there are benefits to the utilization of chiropractic care, acupuncture, and massage therapy efforts to address hip pain and injury. All three methods hold merit.

A healthy conversation with one’s health care provider will best determine a proper course of treatment for a patient, including the frequency of these three modalities.

Massage to bring length and restore movement of the functional movement-based musculature will aid efforts to restoring gait and ease hip flexor strained due to chronic shortness.

Recommended Home Study Massage CE Study

]]>https://www.integrativehealthcare.org/mt/3-complementary-care-options-for-hip-pain/feed/010 Must Have Massage Tools for 2019https://www.integrativehealthcare.org/mt/10-must-have-massage-tools-for-2019/
https://www.integrativehealthcare.org/mt/10-must-have-massage-tools-for-2019/#respondThu, 20 Dec 2018 16:14:41 +0000https://www.integrativehealthcare.org/mt/?p=4653The New Year is a time of renewal and new beginnings, which makes it a perfect time to imbue your massage practice with new life by adding fresh tools to your toolbox.]]>

Try These 10 Massage Tools in 2019

1. Naboso insoles: These insoles take advantage of the thousands of mechanoreceptors in the foot which, when stimulated, affect how we maintain upright stance, activate our postural muscles, and actively control impact forces. Studies have shown that textured insoles like these can improve balance and stability, which suggest their usefulness not only for athletes but also for seniors and those suffering from Parkinson’s, multiple sclerosis, and post-stroke clients, among others.

2. Eucalyptus oil: Research suggests that may have anti-inflammatory properties. In addition, inhaling steam with eucalyptus oil is often recommended for an array of respiratory problems, from chest congestion to sinus infections.

Putting a few drops on a towel hung from the face cradle can help clients breathe more easily when they are lying face down. Most people find the smell refreshing and pleasant. Peppermint oil works similarly.

3. Arnica massage oil: Arnica is known for reducing muscle soreness and inflammation, thus making it a good choice for any therapeutic massage.

But it also has a generally pleasant odor and leaves the skin feeling less sticky than many other massage oils, thus making it suitable for relaxation massage as well. Another quality that makes this massage oil attractive is that it seems to stay fresh for very long periods. I have used Weleda Arnica Oil for years now and have never had a bottle of oil become rancid.

4. Foot balm: Massage creams that are marketed especially for the feet and that have a combination of invigorating essential oils—such as pine, peppermint, ginger, and/or tea tree oils—leave a client’s feet feeling fresh and tingly well after the massage is over. Clients will also love how soft these balms will leave their feet.

5. Tuning fork: Because sound can travel deeply into the body and access hard-to-reach places, applying the stem of a vibrating, calibrated metal tuning fork to the body (esp. to acupressure points) can help release tension and promotes a sense of well-being.

6. Acuforce massage star: This is a great tool for doing trigger point self-care because its weight helps compensate for not being able to get the same kind of leverage you can get when working on someone else.

It can also, however, be used effectively on clients since the weighted tool inherently applies pressure allowing you to use less of your own body strength. The wedge “point” of the star can also be used for muscle stripping and cross-fiber friction.

It comes in two different sizes so you can get the right fit for your hand. The coating on the tool is soft but durable.

7. BioFreeze: Because topical menthol gels have been shown to decrease local blood flow and reduce the effects of inflammation, BioFreeze can mitigate any negative side effects of, for example, deep tissue work. More generally, because BioFreeze and other cryotherapies confuse the pain signals to your brain, its application enhances the client’s sense of pain relief.

One of the benefits of BioFreeze over, for instance, oral pain killers is that its effects are almost immediate.

Like foam rollers, the muscle roller stick provides myofascial release. The advantage of the stick is that it is more easily transported than a foam roller. The disadvantage of the stick, though, is it’s hard to use on muscles you can’t easily reach (e.g., your back) when holding onto its two handles.

But being able to demonstrate both the muscle roller stick and the foam roller to clients gives them options for discovering what will work best for them.

9. Massage table warmers: While not a new tool, there is nothing like a massage table warmer for keeping clients warm and relaxed. Whether you’re doing therapeutic work or relaxation massages or something in between, clients who are guarding against feeling cold will have tensed their muscles, making them that much more difficult to massage.

A table warmer—or, failing that, a heat pack or two—increases the client’s blood flow and begins the process of giving you access to deeper tissue layers. A table warmer certainly isn’t a replacement for a massage therapist, but a warm table can definitely make your work more effective.

10. Emergen-C: If you are in the habit of providing your clients with a glass of water following a massage, consider, instead, offering them some Emergen-C. Emergen-C contains high doses of vitamins C, B6 and B12, plus other nutrients, like zinc and vitamin D, needed for immunity and energy levels.

There is some evidence that these nutrients can boost immunity for those who have a deficiency in them. And even though it’s unclear whether there’s a health benefit to consuming Emergen-C for healthy adults, the sodium bicarbonate in it can help balance the bodies pH and its magnesium can assist with fluid balance and hydration.

In short, unless one consumes it in high doses, there is no down side to drinking Emergen-C and it may be helpful in the several ways discussed above.

Conclusion

New tools can, without doubt, be useful. But there is no substitute for furthering your massage education, learning new techniques and skills, and gaining a better understanding of the body.

]]>https://www.integrativehealthcare.org/mt/10-must-have-massage-tools-for-2019/feed/014 Client Do’s and Don’ts Before and After Getting a Massagehttps://www.integrativehealthcare.org/mt/14-dos-and-donts-before-and-after-getting-a-massage/
https://www.integrativehealthcare.org/mt/14-dos-and-donts-before-and-after-getting-a-massage/#respondThu, 06 Dec 2018 16:10:17 +0000https://www.integrativehealthcare.org/mt/?p=4516Discover how your clients can maximize the gains facilitated through your massage therapy sessions.]]>

Many massage therapists offer advice to clients on how to get the most out of each massage therapy session. Let us explore the many possible suggestions clients may receive. The intention of this article is to help clients understand why massage therapists offer such advice.

9 Items Your Clients Should Remember Prior to Receiving a Massage

Before receiving a massage therapy session, your clients should take note of these important items. These “do’s and don’ts,” if you will, should be shared with your clients to ensure their massage therapy sessions are the most effective they can be.

Stay hygienic. Hygiene matters with any health care treatment, especially involving skin to skin contact. Ensure proper hygiene by showering prior to session. Plan ahead accordingly, especially if outdoor activity, exercise, or heavy labor is planned for the day. A massage therapist uses professional grade media (product) that will be negated by filth upon the body. Clean skin can easily absorb the medicinal components of massage media, including essential oils with medicinal qualities.

Scents / lotions. Be aware of sensitivities to scents and lotions that a therapist may possess. Excessive scents can trigger allergic reactions counterproductive to the healing environment established by the therapist. Ask the therapist prior to treatment if a certain scent is welcome or not in their practice space.

Be open about conditions, injuries, state of health. Massage therapists need to know health changes clients possess. Massage therapy directly impacts all body systems including circulatory, nervous, digestive, and muscular. A therapist needs to know changes in a client’s medical conditions, injury status, and overall state of health to be aware of contraindications and modifications to bodywork.

Do not eat 60 minutes prior to appointment. Shortly after eating a normal sized meal, much of our blood travels to the small intestine, located in our body’s core, so the blood can collect nutrients from food consumed. Since massage will encourage blood flow throughout the body at large, pushing it away from the core will disrupt digestion. Please plan ahead to avoid eating a normal sized meal within an hour of your appointment.

Show up 5-10 minutes early. Arriving shortly before the appointment time ensures a client will receive the full allocated time for treatment. Consider that each instance of removing clothing to get upon the table and donning clothing upon session end, along with any necessary conversation between therapist and client, will take between 1-2 minutes per instance. Remember that most therapists need to stick to their established times, as clients are booked consecutively throughout the day. Therapists try to avoid large gaps between sessions.

Be considerate if you can’t make your scheduled appointment. Please do not “no call, no show” your therapist. Most therapists are trained in business courses to charge a client for such instances. No shows equate to no income for a massage therapist which hurts business tremendously. Please contact your massage therapist as soon as you know you will not be able to attend an established appointment time. Keep in mind that the therapist will likely have a cancellation policy to honor.

Expect an intake before every session. Because a client’s body presents differently every session, it is important for a massage therapist to conduct an intake before each session with a client. The impact of massage therapy sessions is not always instantaneous; rather, there can be changes which occur gradually for days and weeks post treatment. Muscle tension patterns, general integrity of tissue, range of motion, and overall state of health changes week to week. A therapist will keep track of progress and changes over time.

Massage is not the same each session. Massage therapy sessions change as the general state of the client’s body changes. A therapist will adapt with proper modifications to the changing nature of the client’s state of health. Different styles and techniques will be used that are congruent with the client’s case and condition. Also, be aware that no two therapists will massage alike. The great diversity in training within massage schools encourages variety amongst therapists. Please do not expect two therapists to mirror each other’s technique exactly.

Massage witnessed as a medical treatment, not merely a service. Massage therapy is an effective means of health care, allowing one to discover relief from systemic and organ related conditions. Medical based practices are abundant in the industry. Please inquire with your massage therapist how s/he may aid in the care of one’s health condition.

5 Things to Remember for After Receiving a Massage

After receiving a massage therapy session, there are also important items your clients should do to ensure their results last longer.

Clients should:

Do homework assigned by therapist. Stretching, strengthening, movement-based exercises and muscle aid are homework items which may be assigned by massage therapists. The purpose of assigning homework is to present self-care means so clients will witness massage efforts become more effective with longer lasting health gains.

Increase intake of fluids. Ensure proper intake of fluids, especially water, to keep circulation efforts strong within the body. Avoid drinks with high sugar or caffeine content as these drinks prove harmful and dehydrating in the long run. Also, do not drink alcohol after a massage!

Check in daily on changes and shifts within the body. As body awareness heightens, one will realize the effects of massage upon their body. Be sure to take note of physical changes witnessed and felt to inform your therapist prior to next session. A therapist needs to know how the physical body is responding to massage efforts as every person may experience different results from touch.

Be aware of mental and emotional changes. Massage efforts also impact the mental and emotional aspects of self-care. A client may recognize greater clarity and productivity of thought after massage sessions. Also, emotions may be easier to manage after massage sessions. If mental and/or emotional health are challenged, a conversation is welcome with the massage therapist to acknowledge how touch affects one’s psyche and emotions.

Conclusion

Open communication is key between therapist and client. This checklist of “Dos & Don’ts” will ensure massage clients amplify their efforts with their massage therapist.

]]>https://www.integrativehealthcare.org/mt/14-dos-and-donts-before-and-after-getting-a-massage/feed/0Polarity Therapy – Who Invented It and What’s It Used For?https://www.integrativehealthcare.org/mt/polarity-therapy-who-invented-it-and-whats-it-used-for/
https://www.integrativehealthcare.org/mt/polarity-therapy-who-invented-it-and-whats-it-used-for/#respondWed, 17 Oct 2018 14:27:50 +0000https://www.integrativehealthcare.org/mt/?p=3816Find out the history of polarity therapy, as well as how polarity therapy is used to heal your entire life force - physical, mental, emotional and spiritual.]]>

Who Invented Polarity Therapy?

Ayurveda – The traditional Hindu system of medicine, which is based on the idea of balance in bodily systems and uses diet, herbal treatment, and yogic breathing.

Naturopathy – A system of alternative medicine based on the theory that diseases can be successfully treated or prevented without the use of drugs, by techniques such as control of diet, exercise, and massage.

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) – A broad range of medicine practices sharing common concepts which have been developed in China and are based on a tradition of more than 2,000 years, including various forms of herbal medicine, acupuncture, massage exercise, and dietary therapy.

Chiropractic – A system of complementary medicine based on the diagnosis and manipulative treatment of misalignments of the joints, especially those of the spinal column, which are held to cause other disorders by affecting the nerves, muscles, and organs.

Osteopathy – A branch of medical practice that emphasizes the treatment of medical disorders through the manipulation and massage of the bones, joints, and muscles.

Reflexology – A system of massage used to relieve tension and treat illness, based on the theory that there are reflex points on the feet, hands, and head linked to every part of the body.

Cranial Sacral Bodywork – It’s a type of bodywork that relieves compression in the bones of the head, sacrum, and spinal column.

﻿

What’s Polarity Therapy Used For?

The underlying premise is that when the energy in the body’s energy fields is flowing freely, there is health, and when there are blockages present, there is dis-ease causing symptoms such as pain to appear.

Polarity therapy utilizes many of the concepts from these various traditions, including the idea of chi, from Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), and prana from Ayurveda. Both chi and prana translate to energy, or life force, which Dr. Stone believed gave life to matter (the body).

It is that energy that animates the body and brings the mind and soul to life, making balancing that energy a primary concern in regaining health.

Other concepts brought into polarity therapy include the nutritional ideals of Ayurveda and TCM, zones and reflexes from reflexology, bodywork techniques for balancing the physical body from reflexology and cranial sacral work, and even some ideas from physics about the properties of energy.

A major concept in polarity therapy is that energy has 3 states:

a positive (outflowing) aspect

a negative (receptive) aspect

a neutral (integrating) aspect

Part of this idea includes the Ayurvedic principles that Raja is the positive energy that stimulates action and motion and responds to stimulating touch and heat.

Tamas is the negative energy that resonates with inertia and resistance, and responds best to deep, penetrating touch.

Satva is the neutral energy, and is soothing, requiring light touch.

The idea in this system is to balance these energies in the body and surrounding energy fields.

Polarity Therapy’s 4 Areas of Focus

Bodywork

Stretches and Exercises

Nutrition

Verbal Counseling (Mind)

1) Bodywork

The right half of the body holds a positive energy field, with the left being a negative field. Fingers and toes then correspond to Ether, Air, Fire, Water and Earth and are either positive or negative poles on the body. These positive and negative poles create constantly circulating zones of energy in, around, and throughout the body.

Using a variety of bipolar holds similar to reflexology and cranial sacral, polarity therapists will stimulate the flow of energy and the release of blockages. Holds may be on reflex points, with the intent of affecting the corresponding organs, or may be more like cranial sacral techniques, with the intent of adjusting and manipulating the structures of the body. Varying types of pressure may be used, along with rocking, vibration, and even sound.

Because the mind, emotions, and soul are energetically intertwined with the energy that animates the physical body (life), it is common for there to be emotional outbursts from clients receiving polarity therapy.

Squirming, jumping, twitching, coughing and even crying are all considered to be emotional outbursts, signs that blocked energy is breaking up and what is no longer needed is being released.

Polarity therapy recognizes, too, that the practitioner’s energy field will impact the healing session and should also be considered. By following the nutrition, exercise and counseling principles of polarity therapy and receiving regular bodywork, practitioners are encouraged to maintain their own energetic health as well.

2) Exercises

Dr. Stone recognized that movement can be healing, because it can free up stuck energy and restrictions in the body (matter). One common exercise in polarity therapy is to take the squatting posture and rock gently, which opens the pelvic outlet and frees energy in the nervous system.

Dr. Stone utilized a lot of yoga poses, including gentle rocking to free up energy, but many of the stretches and exercises are not specifically from that tradition.

3) Nutrition

The energy in matter indicates the nature of that matter. So, too, does the energy in our food indicate the nature of that food.

When treating conditions, using food with the opposing nature will reduce a condition; and foods with like nature will increase it.

Both Ayurveda and TCM recognize the importance of diet, and that food can be used to modify physical conditions. The body will crave certain foods that it needs, but it is important not to consume anything in excess, as that may further unbalance the system.

One example from polarity therapy includes the idea that potatoes are highly alkaline and draw out acid irritations with external application.

They can be used for:

Colds

Sinus Trouble

Hay Fever

Asthma

Another example from polarity therapy pertains to red beets. The idea is that raw red beets have a drawing effect when grated and applied as a compress, and will draw out:

Puss

Inflections

Splinters

4 Properties of Food

Warming

Cooling

Stimulating

Calming

Counseling

Dr. Stone recognized that our mind informs our reality. Stone considered counseling to be a vital part of health, incorporating many ideals of tolerance, spirituality, and that of working toward a higher calling. Even his own work in polarity therapy was in pursuit of the goal of making significant gains in our understanding of the true nature of man, of health, and of life.

Conclusion

Polarity therapy is a comprehensive system based on many traditions, some ancient and others much more modern. Dr. Stone developed this approach based on the energy fields of the body to address the physical, mental, emotional and spiritual aspects of the living being.

]]>https://www.integrativehealthcare.org/mt/polarity-therapy-who-invented-it-and-whats-it-used-for/feed/0The Gentle Benefits of Massage for Chronic Fatigue Syndromehttps://www.integrativehealthcare.org/mt/the-gentle-benefits-of-massage-for-chronic-fatigue-syndrome/
https://www.integrativehealthcare.org/mt/the-gentle-benefits-of-massage-for-chronic-fatigue-syndrome/#respondThu, 27 Sep 2018 18:33:34 +0000https://www.integrativehealthcare.org/mt/?p=3787Discover how massage therapists can make a difference in the lives of people suffering from chronic fatigue syndrome, as well as the best bodywork techniques to use on clients who have this mysterious disease. As a complementary treatment, massage for chronic fatigue syndrome can be successful.]]>

What Is Chronic Fatigue Syndrome?

It is estimated that over one million Americans suffer with chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) or myalgic encephalomyelitis (ME). CFS/ME is a serious, debilitating, typically lifelong illness.

Physical exercise, or exertion of any kind, such as brushing the teeth, cooking a meal, or carrying a child, make symptoms worse. Even when a person with CFS/ME is resting, they often have ongoing pain and discomfort. The disease affects multiple body systems and finding relief from the symptoms is nearly impossible.

The Cause of CFS/ME Is Unknown

There are no approved drug therapies or treatments for ME and, at best, doctors offer drug treatment to manage certain symptoms. According to the Phoenix Rising website, about 25% of the people living with CFS are home or bedridden.

Often, patients suffer in silence and slowly become depressed, as they await the proper diagnosis, treatment and care. Doctors and researchers are just beginning to discover approaches to definitively diagnose and treat this mysterious disease.

Being Diagnosed With ME

According to the Centers for Disease Control, in order to be diagnosed with ME, a person must be living with significant fatigue that makes it hard to do daily activities for at least 6 months. The CDC diagnosis also requires that four or more of the following symptoms “must persist or reoccur within a 6 month time frame: impaired memory or concentration, post-exertion malaise, sore throat, tender lymph nodes, aching or stiff muscles, joint pain, headaches and un-refreshing sleep (Hives et al, 2017).”

In addition, most healthcare providers feel that a two-year time span and differential diagnosis is important before giving a CFS diagnosis due to the overlap of symptoms with other chronic diseases such as:

This often puts off diagnosis and treatment for many months or even years.

Each person’s experience of this disease is different. Some people have stages of remission when they feel well and at ease, whereas some people constantly feel intense sickness and/or pain.

How do we find answers for this complicated disease?

In recent years, research is beginning to move closer to uncovering the mystery of CFS. In a study done in 2017, there was formal agreement on the presence of specific visual, physical signs to be utilized as screening for chronic fatigue syndrome. Tender lymph nodes and the visual lymphatic system dysfunction have come to researcher’s attention as a means of CFS diagnosis. Across all systems of diagnosing CFS, there is commonality of lymph node involvement. More specifically, the researchers found that varicose lymph vessels can be observed and felt on examination in consistent locations on the chest of people with CFS/ME.

During the course of the research from Hives et al., these four assessments were analyzed as potential screening techniques for CFS/ME:

“Participant standing: observation and palpation of thoracic spine for any postural defects; regions of redness, temperature change or skin rashes or eruptions, for example, acne/boils.

Participant lying supine: observation and palpation of breast tissue for varicosities in the surface lymphatics and abnormal breast tenderness at ‘Perrin’s point’, which is a superficial tender area found at around 2–3 cm lateral and superior to the left nipple.

With the participant remaining supine, palpation of the region of the coeliac plexus just below the xiphoid in the upper central area of the abdomen for any abnormal tenderness with possible temperature change in the region.

With the participant remaining in a supine position, cradle the head and examine the quality of the cranial rhythmic impulse.”
The inflamed lymph system of a person with CFS suggests a “toxic buildup within the central nervous system (Hives et al, 2017).” This is a tremendous breakthrough in both the diagnosis and development of treatment for CFS.

Massage for Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

Massage can be successfully used as a complementary treatment for chronic fatigue syndrome. Gentle Swedish massage is beneficial for relaxing the body and mind of people with chronic illness.

Relaxation massages using slow, soothing techniques can slowly increase the circulation of blood and lymph to the muscles and allow for faster muscle repair. As muscles recover, they become more flexible, have more range of motion, and less pain. The decrease in pain can lead to improved sleep patterns, and overall less stress and reduced tendency toward depression.

The manual assessment system tool mentioned above was developed by Dr. Raymond Perrin. Perrin’s technique of assessment is the beginning of a new way of looking at CFS/ME.

Now, healthcare providers have straightforward, hands-on clinical screening tools for CFS literally at their fingertips. This screening approach shortens the waiting time for a patient diagnosis, and treatment can literally begin right away.

In addition, the manual treatment techniques developed by Dr. Perrin can be used to effectively relieve this buildup of lymph through specific, gentle lymphatic drainage and cranial sacral release techniques. Over the course of several weeks and months, patients regain strength and feel significant relief of their CFS symptoms.

Dr. Perrin recommends a course of treatment for ME that includes:

osteopathic work

chiropractic care

massage/manual therapy

Perrin’s technique includes a series of targeted bodywork approaches, at the sites of lymph engorgement, to stimulate the drainage of toxins directly into the body systems. Of importance to the massage therapist, is the ability to help aid drainage in the cervical and thoracic lymphatic vessels with superficial, stroking motions to move lymph into the blood stream (Perrin, 2007, 93).

Massage therapists can also perform soft tissue massage along the spine and with the muscles of respiration to help reduce restrictions of movement and improve breathing patterns. Lastly, cranial sacral holds of the suboccipital region and sacrum, followed by stimulation of the cranial rhythmic impulse are beneficial to the client.

All of these gentle, supportive hands-on techniques improve ease of cerebral spinal fluid, soften muscle tissue and help with movement of fluids through the lymphatic system for removal. In general, massage therapists can play an important role in helping people reduce their symptoms of chronic fatigue syndrome.

Massage Contraindications

Deep tissue massage of any kind is contraindicated for CFS/ME. Strong pressure on the muscles and tissues, whether it be neuromuscular therapy, deeper Swedish massage, or myofascial work can leave a person struggling with this disease very uncomfortable.

Bodywork approaches that move fluids briskly, abruptly, or without directing toward the lymphatic system for absorption, may cause more neuromuscular pain. It is important to be trained in the specific, gentle techniques mentioned above.

Finding a Cure for Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

Further research is needed to uncover the mystery surrounding CFS/ME diagnosis and treatment. In the late 90s, the CDC admits to diverting money away from doing research on chronic fatigue syndrome because of the belief (at the time) that CFS is a psychosomatic disease. Even in 2015, less money went into health research related to CFS/ME than headaches, infertility or tobacco.

The bottom line is that CFS/ME affects a vast number of Americans and deserves an investment of research funding, time and attention.

Dr. Perrin is beginning to break down some of the barriers to finding a cure for CFS with his research and development of a hands-on approach that makes a difference for people suffering with this disease. However, more research needs to be done to further explore Dr. Perrin’s findings and bring this screening tool to more healthcare providers.

In the future, it will be beneficial for clinicians to utilize this non-invasive clinical observation technique to help diagnosis CFS and make recommendations to the appropriate manual therapists for care.

Massage therapists with training and experience in lymphatic drainage and cranial sacral therapy can play a role in CFS care and make a difference in the life of someone living with this debilitating illness.

Conclusion

In addition to the variety of effective techniques available to massage therapists to help with CFS/ME, Dr. Perrin also provides a variety of self care practices that people living with chronic fatigue syndrome can utilize to help their bodies heal. In his book, The Perrin Technique: How to beat chronic fatigue syndrome/ME, he describes these techniques in detail.

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]]>https://www.integrativehealthcare.org/mt/what-is-your-favorite-essential-oil-to-incorporate-into-a-massage-session/feed/07 Massage Modalities to Reduce Anxiety and Depressionhttps://www.integrativehealthcare.org/mt/massage-for-anxiety-and-depression/
https://www.integrativehealthcare.org/mt/massage-for-anxiety-and-depression/#respondTue, 11 Sep 2018 15:33:54 +0000https://www.integrativehealthcare.org/mt/?p=3770Explore which 7 massage modalities can help reduce anxiety and depression, and 3 keys to creating a calming environment for your client. ]]>

As a massage therapist, we witness clients experience an array of emotions upon our tables, one of which is anxiety. When a client displays anxiety, a therapist needs to know how to assess and interact in a professional manner.

Statistics Provided By the Anxiety and Depression Association of America

Anxiety disorders are the most common mental illness in the United States afflicting 40 million adults (approximately 12% of the population).

Less than 40% of anxiety sufferers receive significant treatment in the form of allopathic medications and/or homeopathic remedies.

People with an anxiety disorder are 3—5 times more likely to visit doctors and be hospitalized for psychiatric disorders.

Fear coupled with anxiety and physical dysfunctions resulting from the heightened fight—flight response.

A clinical psychiatrist or psychologist can formally diagnose one with an anxiety disorder.

The Space We Create Matters

A massage therapist may assist clients with anxiety disorders by creating a healthy and safe environment. A session geared toward calming the body’s senses can greatly alleviate symptoms related to anxiety.

Lighting: Being mindful to keep lighting soft using a non-stimulating source like a salt lamp, as this will help ease visual stimulus.

Sound: Musical selections devoid of lyrics, using slow-paced tracks, melodic tones, and harmonic rhythms are ideal choices to help one remain at ease upon the table.

Listening: A massage therapist may end up listening to the concerns of their client during a panic attack or somatic-emotional response during a bodywork session. The therapist needs to remember to remain neutral in language tone, both verbal and non-verbal. Listen empathetically without becoming sympathetically lost in their story. Remain cognizant if you, as the therapist, are developing an emotional attachment to the client, either to help “save” them or if you overly relate to their situation (especially if you have experienced the same incident). Use clear, concise, non-judgmental language. Resist the urge to offer professional advice on the client’s personal, business and social affairs.

Anxiety Linked with Depression

Anxiety disorders are also linked to depression related conditions such as Major Depressive Disorder and Persistent Depressive Disorder.

A client suffering from depression:

may seem withdrawn

complain of restless (or lack of) sleep

have impaired cognition

fatigue

changes in appetite

swift changes in mood and behavior

These complications may exacerbate anxiety conditions.

Healthy Communication

Since there are multiple levels and sources of anxiety, it’s a good idea for a massage therapist to possess multiple business cards of professionals such as social workers, psychiatrists, psychologists, and counselors to provide to their clients with anxiety. While massage may alleviate physical and mental sources of stress, deep-rooted emotional and psychological sources are best managed with advanced clinical care. Providing options from which a client may choose is the best practice when providing recommendations.

An important aspect of ethical communication with anxiety-ridden clients is to ensure these clients are following treatment plans provided by their doctors and other allopathic professionals. Please refrain from discouraging efforts with their health team.

Suggesting homeopathic and/or naturopathic remedies may be helpful; however, be cautious to avoid making specific claims of their effectiveness. Some natural remedies may not chemically interact well with certain anti-depressant or anti-anxiety medications (see below). Encourage your client to contact their doctor and other health professionals to consult if a natural remedy will interact positively within the established treatment plan.

Conclusion

One last note about working with anxiety clients is to facilitate a healing space in which this client can be heard. Too often, they are dismissed with claims that their sources of anxiety are not valid, assumed to be “acting crazy,” with their concerns and feelings disregarded by friends and family alike. As a massage therapist, you may be their trust confidant through their hardest of times. Be mindful of personal and professional boundaries as we allow the space for this client to share, express, and reveal personal details. Stay within the scope of practice and the intended therapy goals of the present session.

Recommended Home Study Massage CE Courses:

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